KAREN HENSEL

Karen Hensel is an anchor at WRTV with 38 years of broadcast journalism experience. Born and raised in Indianapolis, Karen has spent much of her career reporting and anchoring in her hometown, including 14 years at WISH-TV and WNDY.

Karen joined WISH-TV in 2001 as an investigative reporter and later served as an anchor and chief investigative reporter. Her investigative reporting took her around the world, including to Iraq, where she covered U.S. troops and investigated traumatic brain injuries caused by roadside bombs.

Her investigation Command Mistake examined the protection provided by military helmets and why protective padding was not required in all helmets. The investigation took the WISH-TV team to Washington, D.C., Germany and Iraq and received a Peabody Award.

Karen’s investigative work also included reporting on arsenic-treated wood used in decks and playgrounds and an investigation into bullying in Central Indiana schools. Her reporting on those issues prompted changes at the national and state levels, including Indiana’s first anti-bully law.

After her time at WISH-TV and WNDY, Karen continued her journalism career in Boston and Miami before returning home to Indianapolis to be closer to family and joining WRTV.

Throughout her career, Karen has earned 37 Emmy Awards, two Peabody Awards, a National Edward R. Murrow Award and multiple Gracie Awards among many others.

Karen is a graduate of Purdue University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree.

Have a news tip? Email Karen at Karen.Hensel@wrtv.com